South Korea Power Bank Rules After the Air Busan Fire (2024–2025)
After the Air Busan lithium battery fire, all Korean airlines tightened power bank rules. Here is what you need to know before flying Korean Air, Asiana, and more.
On 29 December 2024, an Air Busan flight from Muan Airport caught fire during landing, killing 179 people. Investigators identified a lithium battery in the cargo hold as the likely ignition source. In response, South Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) introduced sweeping new rules for all Korean-registered carriers.
The New Rules (Effective March 2025)
- No power banks in overhead bins. They must be kept under the seat in front of you or in your personal item, visible at all times.
- No unattended power banks. Cabin crew must be able to see and reach your power bank quickly in the event of a fire.
- No damaged or swollen power banks. If crew notice swelling or heat, they will confiscate the device immediately.
Korea JoongAng Daily — MOLIT announcement
Which Airlines Are Affected?
These rules apply to all Korean Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders, including:
- Korean Air
- Asiana Airlines
- Jeju Air
- Jin Air
- Air Seoul
- T'way Air
What Changed Globally After the Muan Fire
The Muan disaster accelerated a global trend. Within weeks, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa Group, and Cathay Pacific all announced new restrictions. ICAO and IATA convened emergency working groups on lithium battery fire suppression in aircraft holds.
Practical Tips for Flying Korean Airlines
- Keep your power bank in your personal bag under the seat, not overhead.
- Do not use your power bank during the flight — keep it switched off.
- Standard size limits still apply: under 100 Wh no approval, 100–160 Wh needs prior approval.
- Never put a power bank in checked luggage — this was prohibited before the fire and remains absolutely banned.
Sources: Korea JoongAng Daily · IATA Lithium Battery Guidance
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